Halton Region's support for designated officers and emergency service workers in infection prevention and control

Halton Region's Health Department works with designated officers and emergency service workers (ESWs) to ensure that safe practices are followed to reduce the risk of transmission of blood-borne and other types of infection – for both clients and staff during the delivery of services.

Employers' requirements for measures/procedures for health and safety of emergency service workers

Employers must develop written measures and procedures for the health and safety of workers [Health Care and Residential Facilities (HCRF) Sections 8 and 9(1)]. These health and safety measures and procedures must be developed in consultation with the joint health and safety committee (JHSC) or health and safety representative (HSR).

The measures and procedures might deal with, but are not limited to:

safe work practices

safe working conditions

proper hygiene practices

infection prevention and control

immunization against infectious diseases

use of appropriate antiseptics, disinfectants and alcohol based hand rub (ABHR)

use, wear and care of personal protective equipment and its limitations (such as gloves, gowns, facial protection and respirators)

An employer, in consultation with its JHSC or health and safety representative, must develop, establish and provide training and education programs in health and safety measures and procedures to protect workers from exposure to infectious agents [HCRF subsection 9(4)].